Overview
This document explains how Test Data Management (TDM) handles blank data columns during test execution and how to skip test steps entirely using the [suppress] value.
How It Works
When using TDM Read operations, the behavior of the test depends on the 'Ignore Blank Column' setting and the data provided in the TDM source file.
Ignore Blank Column Option
This option controls how empty cells in your TDM dataset are treated during test execution. It does not skip the test step.
- When Checked (Enabled): If a mapped column in the TDM dataset is empty, the test action will revert to using the original default value from the base test case.
- When Unchecked (Disabled): If a mapped column in the TDM dataset is empty, the test action will override the base test case value with the blank value from the TDM dataset.
Skipping a Test Step with [suppress]
To completely skip a test action based on the TDM data, you must use the [suppress] value. Enter [suppress] directly into the corresponding column of your TDM data source file. During execution, when the test reads this value, it will skip that specific action entirely, rather than falling back to base data or using a blank value.
Limitations
There are no specific limitations mentioned for this functionality.
Related Info
Refer to your TDM reference sheets for additional details on special data values.